The Aston Martin VH600 is a 5,998 cc, naturally aspirated V12 petrol engine produced between 2020 and 2025. Developed in-house by Aston Martin, it features a 60° V12 configuration, DOHC 48-valve heads, and dry-sump lubrication. In standard tune, it produces 510 kW (694 PS) and 700 Nm of torque, with a redline of 7,500 rpm, delivering high-revving performance and linear power delivery. The engine shares core architecture with the AM31 V12 but features revised intake, exhaust, and ECU calibration for enhanced throttle response.
Fitted to the DBS Superleggera and DB12, the VH600 was engineered for grand touring refinement and dynamic responsiveness. Its integration into Aston Martin’s VH and MLA platforms includes tuned engine mounts and acoustic management for cabin refinement. Emissions compliance is achieved through direct fuel injection and advanced ECU mapping, allowing the engine to meet Euro 6d standards across all markets.
One documented update is the transition from Bosch MD17.8.10 to Bosch MD17.8.13 ECU in mid-2022, improving torque delivery and cold-start emissions (Aston Martin Engineering Bulletin VH600-22-003). Additionally, early DBS Superleggera models exhibited intermittent intake manifold runner actuator failure due to plastic gear wear. From 2021, revised actuators with reinforced nylon gears per Service Information Bulletin VH600-SIB-21-007 were implemented to enhance durability.
All VH600-powered vehicles comply with Euro 6d emissions standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/9345).
The Aston Martin VH600 is a 5,998 cc naturally aspirated V12 petrol engine engineered for high-performance grand touring (2020–2025). It features a 60° aluminum block, DOHC 48-valve heads, and dry-sump lubrication to deliver strong mid-range torque and high-RPM power. Developed entirely in-house, it meets Euro 6d standards while supporting bespoke intake and exhaust tuning for Aston Martin’s acoustic signature.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 5,998 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | 60° V12, DOHC, 48-valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 89.0 mm × 80.8 mm | |
| Power output | 510 kW (694 PS) @ 7,000 rpm | |
| Torque | 700 Nm @ 5,500 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Direct injection, Bosch MD17.8.13 ECU | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 6d | |
| Compression ratio | 11.8:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled, dual-circuit | |
| Turbocharger | N/A | |
| Timing system | Chain-driven (dual overhead camshafts) | |
| Oil type | Castrol Edge 5W-50 (Aston Martin Specification WSS-M2C947-A3) | |
| Dry weight | 245 kg |
The naturally aspirated VH600 provides linear throttle response ideal for grand touring, but demands strict adherence to 15,000 km oil change intervals using Castrol Edge 5W-50 (WSS-M2C947-A3) to maintain dry-sump system integrity and chain longevity. The engine's in-house design ensures parts commonality across Aston Martin V12 applications, though intake, exhaust, and ECU tuning are model-specific. Early models (pre-2021) may exhibit intake actuator failure under sustained high load; verify gear material and routing per SIB VH600-SIB-21-007 if hesitation occurs. Fuel quality is critical—premium unleaded (RON 98) is required to prevent knock and preserve performance. Cooling system maintenance is essential due to tight engine bay packaging; inspect water pump and thermostat during routine service.
Oil Specs: Requires Castrol Edge 5W-50 meeting Aston Martin WSS-M2C947-A3 (Aston Martin SIB VH600-21-006). Formulated for high-pressure valve train and dry-sump systems.
Emissions: All VH600 engines comply with Euro 6d (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/9345), verified through WLTP testing protocols.
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349 standards. 510 kW output requires RON 98 fuel and precise ignition mapping (Aston Martin TIS Doc. VH600-ECU-022).
Aston Martin Technical Information System (TIS): Docs VH600-ENG-001, VH600-ENG-002, SIB VH600-SIB-21-007
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/9345)
SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Certification Standards
The Aston Martin VH600 was used across Aston Martin's VH and MLA platforms with longitudinal mounting and developed entirely in-house for grand touring performance. This engine received model-specific calibrations-intake tuning in the DBS Superleggera and revised exhaust manifolds in the DB12-and from 2022 the DB12 adopted the VH600 Evo with higher-lift camshafts and optimized valve timing, creating interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine serial number stamped on the right-hand side of the engine block near the rear mounting flange (Aston Martin TIS VH600-ID-001). The 7th VIN digit indicates engine type ('6' for VH600 series). All units have black cam covers with 'VH600' and 'Aston Martin' badging. Critical differentiation from AM31: VH600 features in-house intake manifolds, throttle bodies, and unique ECU calibration. Service parts require model-year verification—intake actuators for pre-2021 DBS Superleggera models are incompatible with post-2021 units due to gear material upgrade per SIB VH600-SIB-21-007.
The VH600's primary reliability risk is intake manifold runner actuator failure on pre-2021 DBS Superleggera units, with elevated incidence during sustained high-load operation. Internal Aston Martin service reports from 2021 indicated hesitation and rough idle in early builds, while UK DVSA records show related fault codes contributing to emissions-related MOT failures. Aggressive driving and infrequent inspections increase risk, making use of reinforced gears and proper routing critical.
Analysis derived from Aston Martin technical bulletins (2020-2025) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2021-2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about ASTON-MARTIN VH600.
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